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Australian project ensures everyone can surf

Humanitarian Updates

Surf for Life project passes $50,000 in donations

Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 20 June, 2014 - More than 200 underprivileged Australian children have enjoyed surfing for the first time thanks to the Surf For Life Project. Established by Surfing Australia, the Surf For Life Project raises funds for underprivileged Australian children to experience surfing through the VEGEMITE SurfGroms program.

Supporters to date include the Quiksilver Foundation, the NJ Innis Foundation, Vegemite (Mondelez), Brand New Media and Consolidated Properties. A team from Surfing Australia is also running the upcoming Gold Coast Marathon to raise funds.

Its aim is to introduce 500 children to surfing in 2014 and has raised more than $50,000 towards its target of $80,000.

Surf For Life programs have been conducted at:
• Darwin with YMCA Top End
• Noosa with the Dokko Aboriginal Corporation
• Cronulla with the Kookaburra Kids Foundation
• Gerroa with the Kookaburra Kids Foundation
• Forster with Mission Australia
• Scotts Head with Nambucca Valley Youth Services

“The program has boosted these children’s confidence immensely and provides an important incentive to strive towards their goals each day in life,” said Katrina Engel from Mission Australia following the Forster program. “We know from experience that the best way to change lives, build stronger communities and hope for the future is to work alongside programs like these. They are so important to the children in our area”

Surfing Australia CEO Andrew Stark said: “The Surf For Life Project is true to our organisation’s purpose to create healthier and happier Australians through experiencing the joy of surfing for life.

“This unique program established in partnership with the Quiksilver Foundation has truly changed the lives of so many kids and importantly underprivileged kids who would not otherwise have the opportunity to experience our great sport and lifestyle.”

The Surf For Life Project is supported by the Australian Sports Foundation, Surfing Australia, VEGEMITE SurfGroms, the Quiksilver Foundation, the NJ Innis Charitable Foundation and Australasian Surf Business Magazine.